Vrboska Old Town Little Venice
Vrboska, Hvar's 'Little Venice,' captivates with its serene canal, stone bridges, and authentic Dalmatian charm. A peaceful escape from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Vrboska Old Town Little Venice
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vrboska, Hvar's 'Little Venice,' captivates with its serene canal, stone bridges, and authentic Dalmatian charm. A peaceful escape from the crowds.
"Vrboska is one of the most peaceful and charming spots on Hvar. Way quieter than Hvar Town, which makes it perfect if you want to escape the crowds and relax."
🚶♀️ Wander the Canals
Explore the charming 'Little Venice' canals on foot. It's the best way to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Cobblestone streets and paths require comfy footwear for exploring the town and nearby areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Canal 'Little Venice'
Central Vrboska
Wander along the narrow canal lined with stone bridges and charming houses. A truly picturesque and tranquil experience.
St. Mary's Church Fortress
Vrboska
A unique fortified church offering historical insights and panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
Scenic Marina and Waterfront
Vrboska Harbor
Admire the fishing boats and yachts docked along the scenic marina, a perfect spot for an evening stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander the Canals
Explore the charming 'Little Venice' canals on foot. It's the best way to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Cobblestone streets and paths require comfy footwear for exploring the town and nearby areas.
⛪ Discover the Churches
Vrboska boasts several historic churches, including the unique fortress church.
🚲 E-bike from Stari Grad
Consider an e-bike ride from Stari Grad for a scenic and enjoyable journey to Vrboska.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander the Canals
Explore the charming 'Little Venice' canals on foot. It's the best way to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Cobblestone streets and paths require comfy footwear for exploring the town and nearby areas.
⛪ Discover the Churches
Vrboska boasts several historic churches, including the unique fortress church.
🚲 E-bike from Stari Grad
Consider an e-bike ride from Stari Grad for a scenic and enjoyable journey to Vrboska.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vrboska is widely praised as a charming and peaceful 'Little Venice' with a tranquil atmosphere, picturesque canals, and authentic local feel. Visitors appreciate its escape from crowds and its historical sites like the fortress church. Some mention ongoing construction, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive for a relaxing visit.
"Great little town. We E-biked from Stari Grad a number of times. Very charming."
Cynthia Gannon
"Vrboska is one of the most peaceful and charming spots on Hvar. It’s a small town built along a narrow canal, often called “Little Venice,” with stone bridges, fishing boats, and beautiful old houses lining the water. Way quieter than Hvar Town, which makes it perfect if you want to escape the crowds and relax.
There are cozy restaurants, a scenic marina, and beaches nearby — both rocky and hidden little bays. It’s also a great base for biking, swimming, or just walking by the water in the evening. Everything feels local and authentic. Definitely worth visiting if you want to experience the calmer side of the island."
Snowy Rainbow
"What a beautiful little town! Holy crap! Really really enjoyed this place, definitely a little calmer than some of the other towns around and fewer tourists. Recommend checking it out."
J. Barrett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vrboska is located on the island of Hvar. You can reach it by car, taxi, or bus from other towns on Hvar like Hvar Town or Stari Grad. Many visitors enjoy an e-bike ride from Stari Grad, which is a scenic option.
Yes, Vrboska is accessible from Hvar Town. The journey by car or bus typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Renting a scooter or car offers flexibility to explore the island.
Ferries arrive at Stari Grad or Hvar Town. From these ports, you'll need to take local transport (bus, taxi, or rental) to reach Vrboska.
Vrboska is a small, walkable town. For exploring the surrounding areas and beaches, consider renting a bike, e-bike, or scooter.
Limited parking is available in Vrboska, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early or consider parking slightly outside the main center and walking in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Vrboska Old Town is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and canals.
Some churches, like the St. Mary's Church Fortress, may have a small entrance fee for visitors wishing to explore their interiors or climb to viewpoints.
Opening hours for specific attractions like churches can vary. It's best to check locally or inquire upon arrival, especially outside of peak tourist season.
Vrboska is generally much quieter and less crowded than Hvar Town, making it ideal for a peaceful experience.
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring, early autumn) or on weekday evenings will offer the most tranquil experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Vrboska is known as 'Little Venice' for its charming canal, stone bridges, and picturesque waterfront. It's celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and authentic local feel.
Key sights include the central canal, the unique St. Mary's Church Fortress, the scenic marina, and the various stone bridges.
Yes, there are several beaches and hidden coves near Vrboska, offering both rocky and pebble shorelines for swimming and sunbathing.
Activities include walking along the canals, visiting churches, swimming at nearby beaches, enjoying local cuisine, and exploring the island by bike.
Absolutely! Vrboska makes for a wonderful and relaxing day trip from other parts of Hvar, offering a different pace of island life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can expect fresh seafood, traditional Dalmatian dishes, and local specialties. Many restaurants offer waterfront dining with lovely views.
Yes, Vrboska has several cozy restaurants and konobas (traditional taverns) serving delicious local food.
Look for grilled fish, octopus salad, black risotto (crni rižot), and local Hvar wines.
Yes, you'll find charming cafes and bars along the waterfront, perfect for a coffee or a refreshing drink.
Dining prices are generally reasonable, especially compared to more tourist-heavy areas. You can find good value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
The canal with its stone bridges, the waterfront with docked boats, the St. Mary's Church Fortress, and narrow alleyways offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides beautiful soft light for capturing the town's charm. Midday can be harsh but still offers good light for the architecture.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Vrboska.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide canal views and details. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the charming streets.
The contrast between the old stone architecture and the vibrant blue water, along with the traditional fishing boats, makes for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing water shoes for rocky beach areas and sun protection for everyone. The gentle pace of Vrboska allows for relaxed family strolls along the canal, and the historical churches can be an interesting, albeit brief, educational stop for curious kids. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Enjoy waterside dining at one of the local restaurants, explore hidden coves for a private swim, or simply sit by the canal and watch the world go by. Renting a bike to explore the island's quieter paths is also a fantastic way to experience the local scenery together.
🚴♀️ Active & Adventure Seekers
Beyond cycling, the clear waters surrounding Vrboska are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore the nearby beaches and coves, many of which are less crowded than those closer to Hvar Town, offering a more pristine natural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Vrboska's Canals
Visitors often describe strolling along the canal as a highlight, finding it incredibly peaceful and photogenic. The area is a testament to the town's history as a fortified settlement, with its architecture reflecting centuries of maritime life. The presence of local fishermen tending to their nets and boats further enhances the feeling of stepping back in time. It’s this unhurried pace and visual poetry that draws people to Vrboska, seeking an escape from the more bustling tourist hubs on Hvar.
Exploring Vrboska's Rich History
Beyond the fortress church, Vrboska is dotted with other historical churches, each with its own story. The town's layout, with its narrow streets and tightly packed houses, also speaks to its defensive origins. Evidence of ongoing work and improvements can be seen, suggesting a community invested in preserving its heritage while preparing for visitors.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
For the more active traveler, Vrboska is an excellent base for exploring Hvar's natural beauty. The island is crisscrossed with cycling paths, and renting an e-bike is a popular way to discover hidden bays and scenic viewpoints. The journey from Stari Grad to Vrboska, for instance, is often cited as a delightful cycling excursion.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit